B.C.'s open-net salmon farms have been ordered to close by 2029, even though the evidence against them is unclear

You can save this article by registering for free here. Or sign-in if you have an account.

The Liberal government’s decision to close British Columbia’s open-net salmon farms by 2029 exposes their disregard for the livelihoods and well-being of First Nations who hinder the party’s lofty, and often shaky, environmental goals.

Jonathan Wilkinson, the Minister of Energy and Natural Resources announced in Vancouver on Wednesday that B.C.’s open-net salmon farms will be forced to close and transition from sea to land by the end of the decade. Making the announcement in the city, rather than the northern coastal community of Klemtu on remote Swindle Island, was an unmistakably cowardly choice.

Enjoy the latest local, national and international news.

Enjoy the latest local, national and international news.

Create an account or sign in to continue with your reading experience.

Don't have an account? Create Account

For the Kitasoo Xai’Xais Nation who inhabit Klemtu, the end of their salmon farming industry could mean losing everything, from their jobs to their loved ones.

The B.C. Salmon Farmers Association says that some 5,000 industry jobs and $1.2 billion in economic activity are now under threat.

According to Kitasoo Xai’Xais Deputy Chief Councillor Isaiah Robinson, his community has enjoyed 99 per cent employment because of the salmon farming industry, which generates 51 percent of their income.

“Because of the work and dignity that comes with the salmon farming industry, we have had no suicides in my community of Klemtu for the past 18 years,” wrote Robinson in an open letter to Prime Minister Justin Trudeau last month. “It makes no sense to shut it down. There is no........

© National Post